Reforestation and Ecotourism Empowerment

Program Description

Volunteers will be working with a local lodge focused on organic gardening and ecotourism called “Finca Esperanza Verda”. This lodge is situated about 4000ft (1200mts) above sea level and provides breathtaking views of the Dariense mountain rage. Matagalpa, a verdant valley, rests below. Local communities and Nicaraguans are able to reach out to tourists and visitors in order to share their culture and sustainability practices. This lodge has been recognized internationally as a means of alleviating poverty through the means of promoting sustainable eco-tourism. An elementary school is located onsite and helps to instruct the children of the local and neighboring communities. Volunteers will assist with planning activities for the children, supporting a local women’s collective, helping to construct the school, promoting ecotourism, harvesting organic coffee, and participating in reforesting.

Highlights

An on-going renovation began this last summer and will be completed in October, which is a great time for volunteers to make use of the improved space. We can accommodate up to 27 people in gorgeous new cabins of handmade brick. We are determined to provide you with an eco-friendly tour in Nicaragua so all of our buildings are equipped with solar powered energy. A new cabin near the organic vegetable garden will be built to house 12 volunteers in comfortable mattresses and with natural wood bunk beds.

As a volunteer, you will have plenty of opportunities to explore our guided bird tours to search over 150 species. There is also a nearby butterfly farm, fun with a local folk music group, cooking courses with locals, a visit to the nearby town of San Ramon, and demonstrations with the Women’s Handmade Paper Cooperative or a chance to make jewelry using seeds.